This gorgeous chess set features figures modeled on ''The Eight Immortals'' from Chinese mythology. Each pawn is different and represents characters such as ''Iron Crutch'' (see photo) who always carries a cane and a hollow gourd - he's the deity of the poor.

The playing board folds up into an elegant wooden carrying case, which looks just as nice resting on a shelf as it does with the chess pieces arranged on top.

These chess sets are made in northwest China using traditional methods and incorporating motifs from Chinese history and mythology. The chess pieces are molded from ground cattle bone. The board is made of wood and coated with a layer of leather that is sealed with a lacquer paint that is a specialty of the region. The inside of the box is layered with Chinese characters taken from poetry and classic literature, giving the whole affair a retro elegance and vintage charm.

• Carrying case is 16-1/4'' x 8-1/2'' x 4'' (41cm x 22cm x 10.5cm)
• Playing board is 16-1/4'' x 16-3/4'' (41cm x 42cm)
• The queen is 3-1/4'' tall (8cm).
• This chess set is brand new.